Q&A: Is Anal Sex Safe? Or Will I End Up in Adult Diapers?

Hello Dr. Debby, my guy loves anal sex. Frankly, I do at some points during his erection, too (not when he has a full erection, though - OUCH!). Anyway, the question is this: will frequent anal sex ruin my muscle, causing me to have to wear a diaper later in life? I'm concerned. Thank you.

My response:

Great question! Safe, comfortable (read: not painful) anal sex is unlikely to cause long term damage to your anus or rectum. In fact, as many as 25-40% of women have tried anal sex (fewer practice it regularly) and anal incontinence - a condition which might lead an adult to wear a diaper - is uncommon. It is absolutely possible to enjoy anal sex without being damaged by it or end up wearing adult diapers because of it.

That said, the fact is that scientists have never - to my knowledge - conducted a study on the long-term safety of anal sex. It is theoretically possible that frequent or vigorous anal sex could put undue pressure on the posterior (back) vaginal wall. This could lead to an increased risk for passing gas (farting) or even to anal continence problems. However, because large numbers of people have enjoyed anal sex over the years - and anal incontinence is relatively uncommon - it's generally believed that anal sex does not raise one's risk of anal incontinence all that much (if at all), especially if it is practiced in a way that is comfortable and that reduces the risk of tearing. Hint: water-based lubricant and communication help!

Anal Cancer and Anal Warts

Anal sex may also increase the risk of anal cancer if certain high risk strains of HPV are passed - however, while HPV is extremely common (most adults will have HPV at some point in their lives), anal cancer is rare. Anal sex can also increase the risk of acquiring HPV strains that can cause anal warts - which, again, are uncommon. If you find anal sex to be pleasurable you may be willing to accept this very small risk of acquiring HPV anally. After all, many women and men accept the risk of HPV when they decide to have vaginal sex or oral sex (HPV can be transmitted through any of these types of sex and only rarely causes significant problems such as cancer).

Anal Play and Pleasuring

Overall, many women and men enjoy various types of anal pleasuring including finger play, oral-anal play, using sex toys for anal play (at the entrance to the anus and/or inside the anus or rectum) and having penile-anal sex. If you enjoy anal play or are curious about exploring it in different ways, check out my new book, Because It Feels Good, to learn tips for safer, pleasurable, more enjoyable anal play as well as tips for taking care of your anal health.

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